In India it is said that there is a goddess in every village, a nymph in every lake. Demonesses stand guard on village frontiers, ogresses howl on crossroads, and untamed forests resound with the laughter of celestial virgins. It is a land of mysterious Apsaras and seductive Yakshinis, of terrifying Dakinis and wise Yoginis – each with a story to tell.

Exploring mysteries of gender and biology, and shedding light on the roots of taboos and traditions practiced in India, the author shows how the image of the Mother Goddess can be both worshipped and feared when she carries the face of mortal woman.